Most successful concert tours of all time
The most successful concert tours of all time have reshaped the music industry, combining exceptional performances with global reach. These tours are defined by their massive audiences, record-breaking ticket sales, and cultural impact. The artists behind these tours are not only music icons but also entrepreneurs who have mastered the art of fan engagement and marketability.
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These tours have played a significant role in changing the dynamics of live performances, with artists increasingly focusing on global audiences. They often involve extensive planning, innovative stage setups, and carefully curated setlists that appeal to diverse crowds. In addition to the economic benefits of record-breaking sales, these tours influence tourism, create job opportunities in the entertainment industry, and contribute to the local economies of the cities they visit. The cultural relevance of these tours is amplified by their ability to connect with millions of fans worldwide, leaving lasting impressions that go beyond the music itself.
Taylor Swift-Eras Tour (2023-24)View AllTaylor Swift-Eras Tour (2023-24) - A celebration of musical eras with unforgettable performances.
Elton John-Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour (2018-20, 2022-23)View AllElton John-Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour (2018-20, 2022-23) - A legendary farewell to a glittering career.
Ed Sheeran-The ÷ (Divide) Tour (2017-19)View AllEd Sheeran-The ÷ (Divide) Tour (2017-19) - A solo artist captivating audiences globally with raw talent.
U2-360° Tour (2009-11)View AllU2-360° Tour (2009-11) - Revolutionizing live music with a groundbreaking 360-degree stage.
Coldplay-Music of the Spheres World Tour (2022-23)View AllColdplay-Music of the Spheres World Tour (2022-23) - An electrifying blend of sound, light, and cosmic energy.
Harry Styles-Love on Tour (2021-23)View AllHarry Styles-Love on Tour (2021-23) - A joyful celebration of individuality and music.
Guns N' Roses-Not In This Lifetime... Tour (2016-19)View AllGuns N' Roses-Not In This Lifetime... Tour (2016-19) - The legendary return of rock's most iconic band.
Beyoncé-Renaissance World Tour (2023)View AllBeyoncé-Renaissance World Tour (2023) - A bold reinvention of the Queen’s legacy.
The Rolling Stones-A Bigger Bang Tour (2005-07)View AllThe Rolling Stones-A Bigger Bang Tour (2005-07) - The Rolling Stones in their prime, rocking the world.
The Rolling Stones-No Filter Tour (2017-19, 2021)View AllThe Rolling Stones-No Filter Tour (2017-19, 2021) - A new chapter in the legacy of rock’s most legendary band.
Most successful concert tours of all time
1.
Taylor Swift-Eras Tour (2023-24)
Taylor Swift’s "Eras Tour" is an epic journey through her career, offering a carefully curated setlist that spans across all her albums. Fans are treated to a perfect mix of her country roots, pop anthems, and indie ballads. The stage production is visually stunning, with multiple outfit changes and stunning visuals, bringing each era of Swift's music to life. Her performances are emotionally charged, with intimate moments connecting her to the audience, reflecting on her growth as an artist. This highly anticipated tour has broken records and proved Swift's dominance in the music industry.
Pros
Iconic setlists- Stunning visuals
- Emotional performances
- Fan engagement
- Record-breaking revenue
Cons
Long tour dates- Exhausting schedule
- Limited availability
- High ticket demand
- Physically demanding
2.
Elton John-Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour (2018-20, 2022-23)
Elton John’s "Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour" marks the end of his 50-year touring career. This monumental tour celebrates the legend’s incredible catalog of music, including timeless hits that have become anthems of the pop and rock genres. Elton’s performances are a mix of nostalgia and emotion, as he says goodbye to his fans around the world. Known for his flamboyant style and musical virtuosity, this tour showcases the breadth of his career and the deep connection he has with his audience. From his signature outfits to his piano mastery, the tour proves why Elton John is one of the most iconic artists of all time.
Pros
- Emotional farewell
- Iconic songs
- Grand stage production
- Worldwide appeal
- Legacy-defining
Cons
- Long tour duration
- Expensive tickets
- Emotional burden
- Limited shows
- Exhausting travel schedule
3.
Ed Sheeran-The ÷ (Divide) Tour (2017-19)
Ed Sheeran’s ÷ (Divide) Tour was a global success, reaching millions of fans with his blend of acoustic pop, soul, and folk. With nothing more than a guitar and a loop pedal, Sheeran proved that simplicity is sometimes the most powerful form of entertainment. His ability to engage the crowd with heartfelt lyrics, catchy melodies, and authentic performance made each show feel personal. The tour featured Sheeran’s biggest hits, like "Shape of You" and "Castle on the Hill," creating an unforgettable experience for fans. Despite his solo setup, he filled stadiums, showing how much impact an artist can have with minimal production.
Pros
- Personal connection
- Acoustic performance
- Global reach
- High energy
- Diverse setlist
Cons
- Solo performer limitations
- High ticket prices
- Lack of large-scale production
- Limited visual effects
- Expensive merchandise
4.
U2-360° Tour (2009-11)
The U2 360° Tour is one of the most innovative concert tours ever. It featured a 360-degree stage that allowed for immersive audience engagement, making fans feel like they were part of the performance no matter where they were seated. The tour supported the band’s album "No Line on the Horizon," and U2 brought their A-game with powerful performances, cutting-edge visuals, and socially-conscious messaging. This massive production became the highest-grossing tour at the time, with millions of fans attending the shows across the world. U2’s commitment to producing a visual and auditory experience made this tour an unforgettable spectacle.
Pros
- Innovative stage design
- Record-breaking success
- Powerful performances
- Global appeal
- Social impact
Cons
- High ticket prices
- Complex production
- Limited intimate connection
- High production cost
- Technical issues
5.
Coldplay-Music of the Spheres World Tour (2022-23)
Coldplay’s "Music of the Spheres" World Tour was a visually spectacular journey through their latest album, filled with immersive lights, eco-friendly practices, and emotional performances. The band used advanced technology to create a highly interactive concert, where the audience could engage with the music in new ways. Coldplay’s commitment to sustainability was evident throughout the tour, from eco-conscious stage design to efforts to minimize their carbon footprint. With a mixture of intimate ballads and massive anthems, Coldplay delivered a show that balanced environmental responsibility with musical excellence.
Pros
- Stunning visuals
- Interactive fan experience
- Strong environmental message
- Global reach
- Powerful setlist
Cons
- Expensive tickets
- Heavy reliance on visuals
- Limited intimacy
- Long show durations
- Complex logistics
6.
Harry Styles-Love on Tour (2021-23)
Harry Styles’ "Love on Tour" gave fans a deeply personal and celebratory experience, mixing hits from his solo albums with an electric live performance. The tour was marked by its inclusive atmosphere, where Styles celebrated freedom, self-expression, and love. His charisma, emotional vocals, and high-energy performances created an unforgettable connection with the audience. From his hits like "Watermelon Sugar" to ballads like "Falling," each concert felt intimate, despite the large venues. Styles’ openness about his experiences made the shows even more special, as he shared personal stories and messages of empowerment with fans.
Pros
- Positive atmosphere
- Inclusive message
- Diverse music style
- Strong fan connection
- Charismatic performer
Cons
- Limited setlist variation
- Over-reliance on visuals
- Long travel dates
- High ticket demand
- Shorter set times
7.
Guns N' Roses-Not In This Lifetime... Tour (2016-19)
The "Not In This Lifetime..." tour marked the reunion of Guns N' Roses’ classic lineup, including Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan. Fans were thrilled to see the band return to the stage after years of speculation about a reunion. The tour was packed with the band’s greatest hits, like "Sweet Child O' Mine" and "Welcome to the Jungle," and featured intense, high-energy performances. Despite their years apart, the chemistry between the members was undeniable, and the crowd's excitement was palpable. This tour became one of the highest-grossing tours in rock history, and many fans considered it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the original lineup live.
Pros
- Iconic lineup reunion
- Nostalgia-driven
- High energy
- Record-breaking success
- Major fan appeal
Cons
- Long gaps between shows
- Aging performers
- Tension between members
- Expensive tickets
- Expectations of perfection
8.
Beyoncé-Renaissance World Tour (2023)
Beyoncé’s "Renaissance World Tour" was a celebration of individuality, art, and self-expression. It supported her album "Renaissance," which was a mix of disco, house, and electronic dance music. Beyoncé’s commanding stage presence, combined with high-energy choreography and striking visuals, made this tour one of her most ambitious yet. Each performance was carefully crafted, blending powerful vocals with intricate dance routines and stunning production. The tour also highlighted themes of empowerment, inclusivity, and the strength of self-love, making it not just a concert but a cultural event. Her ability to connect with audiences, along with the bold reinvention of her music and persona, made this tour a defining moment in her career.
Pros
- Powerful performances
- Artistic vision
- Stunning visuals
- Dance-heavy choreography
- Empowering message
Cons
- High ticket prices
- Rigorous schedule
- Long performance times
- Limited intimate connection
- Complex choreography
9.
The Rolling Stones-A Bigger Bang Tour (2005-07)
The Rolling Stones' "A Bigger Bang Tour" showcased the band at the height of their rock career, bringing their iconic hits to global audiences. The tour featured explosive performances of classics like "Start Me Up" and "Brown Sugar," as well as newer tracks from their album "A Bigger Bang." Despite their age, the Stones delivered high-energy performances with Mick Jagger leading the way. The band's long-lasting popularity and their ability to still put on a thrilling live show made this tour a memorable experience for fans. With an incredible setlist and an international tour that spanned continents, this tour cemented their place in rock history.
Pros
- Timeless hits
- High energy
- Iconic performances
- Global reach
- Strong fan base
Cons
- Aging performers
- High ticket costs
- Limited setlist variety
- Physical demands
- Long set durations
10.
The Rolling Stones-No Filter Tour (2017-19, 2021)
The Rolling Stones' "No Filter Tour" was a more stripped-back, raw version of their usual performances, focusing on their music rather than elaborate stage setups. The setlist featured their greatest hits and allowed the band to reconnect with their roots while maintaining their legendary status. Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and the rest of the band brought their usual charisma and rock power to the stage, creating an intimate atmosphere despite performing in large venues. The "No Filter" approach also reflected the band's refusal to slow down, proving their enduring relevance.
Pros
- Raw and authentic
- Iconic hits
- Great stage presence
- Fans appreciate simplicity
- Continued relevance
Cons
- Limited visual effects
- Older performer limits
- Higher ticket prices
- Audience expectations
- Small setlist changes